Punch Bowl Cake – A Crowd-Pleasing Delight!
Introduction:
Looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for gatherings? This Punch Bowl Cake is a dreamy layered treat featuring fluffy yellow cake, creamy vanilla pudding, sweet pineapple, ripe bananas, luscious cherry pie filling, and whipped topping—all finished with a crunchy pecan garnish. Ideal for potlucks, parties, or family dinners, this dessert is as beautiful as it is delicious!
Ingredients
1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (Pillsbury or your favorite brand)
1 cup water
½ cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 box (6.8 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
4 cups cold whole milk
40 oz crushed pineapple, well-drained
4 medium bananas, sliced
42 oz cherry pie filling (about 2 cans)
16 oz whipped topping, thawed
⅓ cup chopped pecans
Instructions
Bake the Cake:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
In a mixing bowl, combine cake mix, water, oil, and eggs. Beat with a hand mixer until smooth.
Pour batter into the prepared dish and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
Prepare the Pudding:
Whisk pudding mix and cold milk in a bowl until thickened (about 2 minutes). Set aside.
Assemble the Layers:
Cut the cooled cake into cubes. Crumble half into the bottom of a 4-quart punch bowl (or trifle dish).
Layer in this order:
½ of the pudding
½ of the pineapple
½ of the bananas
1 can of cherry pie filling
½ of the whipped topping
Repeat layers with remaining ingredients.
Top with chopped pecans.
Chill & Serve:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Tips & Variations
✔ Feeds a crowd – Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or holiday gatherings.
✔ Make it ahead – Assemble a day in advance for even better flavor.
✔ Switch it up – Try chocolate cake with chocolate pudding, or add coconut for a tropical twist.
✔ Presentation matters – A trifle bowl makes for an elegant display!
With its irresistible layers of cake, fruit, and creamy filling, this Punch Bowl Cake is sure to be a hit at any event. Easy to customize and always a crowd favorite, it’s the ultimate dessert for those who love a mix of textures and flavors. Give it a try—your guests will be asking for seconds!
Enjoy! 🍒🍌🍍
